Chael Sonnen on Jon Jones: “It’s Terrifying How Good He Is”
Jon Jones’s Mastery at UFC 309
Jon Jones once again solidified his legacy at UFC 309, where he secured a dominant third-round TKO victory over Stipe Miocic. Despite being hailed as one of the greatest heavyweight fighters in MMA history, Miocic struggled to keep pace with the reigning champion. Critics have suggested that age played a role in Miocic’s defeat, but Chael Sonnen strongly disagrees.
Speaking to Ariel Helwani, Sonnen emphasized that Miocic wasn’t defeated by time, but by Jones’s unmatched skills.
“Father Time didn’t beat Stipe. Jon Jones beat Stipe,” Sonnen stated firmly.
From the outset, Jones appeared faster, more aggressive, and strategically superior. He controlled the fight with precision, leaving little room for Miocic to mount an effective offense.
What If Jones Had Perfect Discipline?
Sonnen also took the opportunity to reflect on Jones’s remarkable career. Despite being considered one of the most talented fighters in the history of MMA, Jones’s legacy is often shadowed by his off-cage controversies and inconsistent discipline. Sonnen highlighted the fact that Jones himself admitted to partying and not training properly before key fights, including his iconic battle with Alexander Gustafsson at UFC 165.
“Jones would be so much better now, and Ariel, that’s a scary thought, not an exciting thought,” Sonnen remarked. He elaborated further, saying,
“He would hurt people. Jon sends the most dangerous guys in the world to the hospital, and that’s without fighting with his full knowledge.”
Sonnen’s comments underline the immense, yet untapped, potential that Jones could have achieved with complete focus and dedication throughout his career.
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Sonnen’s Personal Experience Against Jones
Chael Sonnen is no stranger to Jon Jones’s prowess. The two faced off at UFC 159 on April 28, 2013, in what became a one-sided contest. Sonnen succumbed to a first-round TKO after receiving a barrage of knees, elbows, and punches. Reflecting on that fight, Sonnen acknowledged the raw power and skill that Jones brings into the cage.
“It’s scary how good he is at this sport,” Sonnen stated. He further emphasized how intimidating it is to imagine Jones operating at full capacity, given how dominant he already is without it. Sonnen’s comments provide a chilling perspective on the legacy of one of MMA’s most polarizing champions.
A Legacy That Transcends Divisions
Jon Jones’s victory over Stipe Miocic not only reaffirmed his dominance in the heavyweight division but also strengthened his case as one of the greatest mixed martial artists of all time. His ability to dismantle elite opponents, regardless of their size or skills, showcases the depth of his talent. As Sonnen noted, Jones’s capacity to send world-class fighters to the hospital speaks volumes about his power and precision.
Yet, the lingering question remains: What could Jones have achieved if he had been entirely focused on his craft throughout his career? While his legacy is already unparalleled, the idea of “what could have been” makes his story all the more intriguing.
Sources: MMAnytt.se